Creamy Mediterranean Garlic and Herb Sauce (Easy Homemade Mayonnaise)

This silky-smooth sauce combines the richness of homemade mayonnaise with Mediterranean herbs and garlic, offering a versatile condiment perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as a dipping sauce.

Ingredients

Base

  • 50ml (3.5 tbsp) whole milk, room temperature
  • 100ml (6.75 tbsp) olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) fresh lemon juice

Seasonings

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh green onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare Base (2 minutes)
  • Pour milk into a deep mixing bowl
  • Position immersion blender at bottom
  • Start blending while slowly pouring olive oil
  1. Emulsify (1 minute)
  • Keep blender at bottom until mixture thickens
  • Continue blending until sauce becomes pale green
  • Mixture should be smooth and creamy
  1. Season (2 minutes)
  • Add lemon juice, salt, pepper
  • Blend briefly to incorporate
  • Mix in minced garlic, green onion, parsley

Nutritional Information

Per serving (2 tablespoons):

  • Calories: 120
  • Fat: 13g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Sodium: 150mg

Total Time: 5 minutes

  • Prep: 3 minutes
  • Blend: 2 minutes

Pro Tips

  1. Perfect Emulsion
  • Use room temperature ingredients
  • Pour oil very slowly
  • Keep blender submerged
  • Use tall, narrow container
  1. Flavor Enhancement
  • Adjust garlic to taste
  • Use fresh herbs when possible
  • Season gradually

Variations

  1. Herb Options
  • Dill for fish dishes
  • Basil for Mediterranean
  • Cilantro for Mexican
  1. Add-ins
  • Dijon mustard
  • Capers
  • Anchovy paste

FAQs

Q: Why did my sauce separate?
A: Room temperature ingredients and slow oil addition prevent separation.

Q: How long does it keep?
A: 5-7 days refrigerated in airtight container.

Q: Can I use different oils?
A: Yes, but olive oil provides best Mediterranean flavor.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Substitute milk with plant-based alternatives.

Storage Tips

  • Store in airtight container
  • Keep refrigerated up to 1 week
  • Do not freeze
  • Let reach room temperature before serving